Integrating global operations with information technology: lessons from a case study

In the early 1980´s, BP Chemicals faced challenges calling for some fundamental changes in its business strategy. The strong emphasis on production was giving way to a renewed search for new sources of competitive advantage such as enhanced customer service. In 1985, BP Chemicals embarked on an ambitious project to integrate all aspects of its international commercial activities. An information system, the Commercial System, was to form the core of this project and enable the organizational changes required for this integration. After overcoming the difficulties of implementing a large international information system, BP Chemicals is now facing the challenge of initiating major changes in its organizational structure and business processes. This paper describes the strategic planning and implementation of the Commercial System, and attempts to draw some lessons from the experience.<>